Bryant did reach out to Anthony directly to explain why he wasn't able to make the meeting, after the time had been moved up, sources said. The two are close friends and have been in touch throughout the process.

Anthony concluded his meeting with Lakers representatives shortly before 6 p.m. ET Thursday. Bryant hoped to meet with Anthony later Thursday evening, according to a source.

Bryant has a long history and friendship with Anthony and has been courting him for some time, but he felt it was important to be there when the Lakers made their pitch to Anthony in Los Angeles.

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If the Bulls aren't able to land Carmelo Anthony, they will still have summer options to round out a title-contending roster, Nick Friedell writes. Story

The Lakers have made Anthony and fellow superstar free agent LeBron Jamesthe main focus of their offseason, going so far as to hold off hiring a coach and signing other free agents until they could make their pitches to the two players.

Sources indicate the Lakers are enamored with Anthony's game and believe he would complement Bryant well.